Samsung Washer IC Error Code — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The IC error on a Samsung washer means the machine has detected an abnormal current leakage — electricity is leaking where it should not be. This is a safety error designed to protect you from electric shock. Samsung washers with this error will stop mid-cycle and refuse to run. Do NOT ignore this error. Do not use the washer until the fault is diagnosed and repaired. Unplug the machine immediately and do not touch it while it is plugged in.

Affected Models

Samsung WF45R6100
Samsung WA50R5400
Samsung WF42H5000
Samsung WD80J6410
Most Samsung front-load and top-load washers

Common Causes

Damaged power cord with exposed or frayed wiring creating a current leak
Water has entered an electrical component such as the motor or control board
Faulty or degraded motor winding causing leakage to the metal drum or chassis
Ground wire disconnected or corroded, causing the machine to fail its ground check
Defective main control board with an internal short causing leakage detection

How to Fix It

Unplug the washing machine immediately. Do not run the washer again until the issue is resolved. Safety is the top priority with any current leakage error.

Even if the machine seems to run normally at times, a current leak can cause electric shock, especially when wet surfaces are involved.
Inspect the power cord from the plug to where it enters the machine. Look for any cuts, pinched sections, fraying, or exposed copper wire.

A damaged power cord is one of the most accessible and affordable fixes — cords are usually $20 to $50.
Check that the washer is properly grounded. The outlet must be a properly wired three-prong outlet. Test the outlet with a plug-in outlet tester (available at hardware stores for under $10).

Many older homes have improperly wired outlets. A missing ground is both a safety hazard and can trigger IC errors.
Inspect the area around the motor and drum for signs of water entry. Water that has reached electrical components is a common cause of current leakage on front-load washers.

Check the door seal and tub area for cracks or signs of water where it should not be.
If the cord, ground, and visible components all look fine, contact Samsung support or a licensed appliance technician. Component-level testing requires safety equipment and expertise.

Do not plug the washer back in and run it to test — have a professional perform electrical safety checks first.

When to Call a Professional

Current leakage is a serious electrical safety hazard. This repair should only be performed by a qualified appliance technician or electrician. Do not attempt to bypass or ignore this error — it exists to prevent electric shock. Unplug the washer and do not reconnect it until a professional has confirmed it is safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the IC error dangerous?

Yes — current leakage near water is a genuine shock hazard. The machine stops to protect you, but the underlying fault still exists while it is plugged in. Unplug it and leave it unplugged until a technician inspects it. Do not let children or pets near the machine while this error is active.

Can I fix the IC error myself?

If the fix is something simple like a damaged power cord or an ungrounded outlet, a confident DIYer can handle it. However, any repair involving the motor, control board, or internal wiring should be left to a professional. Electrical safety in appliances is not an area to take shortcuts.

Will Samsung cover the IC error under warranty?

If your washer is within the 1-year standard warranty or 3-year motor warranty, Samsung may cover the repair. Contact Samsung support at 1-800-SAMSUNG or visit samsung.com/us/support. Have your model number and purchase date ready when you call.